Broccoli Soup
This homemade broccoli soup is creamy, rich, and bursting with flavor. Its the ultimate comfort food that you’ll enjoy with every bite. In just under half an hour, you can prepare and serve this delightful dish, making it a convenient choice for any meal.
Servings 4 People
Ingredients
- 3 cups broccoli cut into small pieces
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small carrot shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup whipping cream
- 1 chicken bouillon cube optional
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup cheddar cheese plus extra for topping
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into small pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about a minute until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Create the Roux: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to form a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate the shredded carrot and broccoli pieces into the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for another minute.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the chicken bouillon cube. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the bouillon cube dissolves. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli becomes very tender.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency, leaving some chunks of broccoli intact for texture.
- Incorporate Dairy: Stir in the whipping cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with additional cheddar cheese if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Opt for freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can result in a gritty texture. Grating the cheese yourself ensures a smoother, creamier soup.
2. Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor
Incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or celery to enhance the soups flavor and nutritional value. Chop them into small pieces and saute them with the onions for a well-rounded taste.
3. Control Soup Thickness
Adjust the soups thickness by blending a portion of the broccoli and returning it to the pot. For a thinner consistency, add more broth or water until you reach your desired texture.
4. Season at the End
Season the soup with salt and pepper at the end of cooking to prevent over-seasoning. This approach allows you to adjust the flavors more accurately.
5. Serve in Bread Bowls
For a fun presentation, serve the soup in crusty bread bowls. The bread absorbs the soup, adding a delightful texture and flavor.